Verna Dozier method of Bible Study

Equipping the Saints
This approach uses more than one translation and studies the Bible in significant segments, not verse by verse. Try to find several translations and encourage group members to bring one or more with them. Preferably, each person will have at least two. If a commentary or reflection by someone from another culture is available, it would be helpful to read as part of the discussion in Step 3. It would give one perspective on the passage that speaks to its meaning today; the group then would identify the passage’s meaning for them.

• Clarify what the passage is saying. What do the words in the passage mean? Why do certain translations use different words? What do commentaries say about any obscurities in the passage? What nuances do the words have that may not be apparent in English?

• Clarify why the passage was preserved. What was the significance of this passage to the community that preserved it? What were the issues they were dealing with at the time? How did this passage speak to those issues?

• Reflect on what the passage means for us today. What is the passage calling us to do?

Close with prayer.

Gospel-Based Discipleship Bible Study

Pray for an open mind and heart.

Read the Scripture. Reflect for a minute on the question: What word or phrase jumps out at me? Share that word or phrase with the members of the group.

Read the same passage again, in a different translation, with different reader. Reflect on the question: What is God saying to me in this passage? Share your answer.

Read the Scripture a third time, in a third translation. Reflect on the question: What is God calling me to be or change or do in the coming week? Share your answer.

Close with prayer for one another’s intentions for the coming week.

Note: There isn’t discussion of what each person shares, simply listening – a clarifying question is okay. Share about yourself, not about the passage – you are not teaching.